Longest Video Game: How Long To Beat?

by Jhon Lennon 38 views

Hey everyone! Ever wondered about the longest video game out there? You know, the kind of game that you can sink hundreds, even thousands, of hours into and still not see the end? Well, you're in the right place. We're diving deep into the realm of expansive, never-ending games that will keep you glued to your screen for an insane amount of time.

So, what exactly makes a game "long"? Is it the main storyline that stretches on forever? Or is it the countless side quests, hidden collectibles, and endless grinding that add to the playtime? Maybe it's the replayability factor, where you can start all over again with different choices and outcomes. Whatever the reason, these games offer an incredible amount of content that can keep you entertained for months, or even years.

Defining "Longest": What Are We Measuring?

Before we jump into specific titles, let's define what we mean by "longest." Are we talking about the game with the most main story content? Or are we considering games with the most overall content, including side quests, exploration, and post-game activities? It's also worth considering different playstyles. Some players like to rush through the main story, while others prefer to take their time and explore every nook and cranny. And then there are the completionists who want to unlock every achievement and find every secret.

For the purpose of this discussion, we'll consider a game's length based on the average time it takes to complete the main story, significant side quests, and substantial post-game content. We'll also take into account the opinions of players who have spent a considerable amount of time with these games. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and your own playtime may vary depending on your skill level, playstyle, and how easily you get distracted by shiny objects in the game world.

Contenders for the Longest Game

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the top contenders for the title of longest video game in the world:

1. World of Warcraft (WoW)

When it comes to sheer content and playtime, World of Warcraft is a massive contender. Launched in 2004, this MMORPG has been captivating players for nearly two decades. With countless expansions, each adding new zones, quests, dungeons, and raids, WoW offers an unfathomable amount of content. Even if you were to play non-stop, it would take you months, if not years, to experience everything the game has to offer.

The main storyline of WoW is constantly evolving, with each expansion adding new chapters to the saga. But the real draw of the game is the endless amount of side content. You can spend hours exploring the vast world, completing quests for various factions, leveling up different professions, and collecting rare mounts and pets. And let's not forget about the raids, which are challenging group activities that require teamwork and coordination to complete. Some WoW players have literally spent tens of thousands of hours in the game, and they're still finding new things to do.

2. The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)

Another MMORPG that deserves a spot on this list is The Elder Scrolls Online. Set in the vast and immersive world of Tamriel, ESO offers a massive amount of content for players to explore. With a constantly expanding storyline, numerous side quests, and a wealth of activities to participate in, ESO can keep you busy for a very long time.

One of the great things about ESO is that it allows you to play the game at your own pace. You can focus on the main story, or you can spend your time exploring the world, completing side quests, and crafting items. There's also a thriving player community, with plenty of opportunities to group up with other players and tackle challenging content together. If you're looking for a game that you can sink hundreds of hours into, The Elder Scrolls Online is definitely worth checking out.

3. EVE Online

If you're looking for a game that is truly endless, look no further than EVE Online. This space-based MMORPG is known for its complex gameplay, cutthroat player interactions, and massive scale. In EVE, you can do just about anything you can imagine, from mining asteroids and trading goods to building your own space empire and engaging in large-scale battles with other players.

What makes EVE Online so unique is its player-driven economy and political landscape. Everything in the game is controlled by the players, from the prices of goods to the ownership of star systems. This creates a dynamic and ever-changing world where anything can happen. Some EVE players have spent over a decade playing the game, and they're still discovering new things to do and new ways to make their mark on the galaxy.

4. No Man's Sky

No Man's Sky had a rocky start, but after years of updates and improvements, it has become one of the most expansive and engrossing games on the market. With billions of procedurally generated planets to explore, No Man's Sky offers an almost limitless amount of content.

You can spend your time exploring planets, gathering resources, building bases, and interacting with alien civilizations. There's also a main storyline to follow, but the real draw of the game is the sense of discovery and the freedom to explore the universe at your own pace. If you're looking for a game that you can get lost in for hours on end, No Man's Sky is definitely worth a look.

5. Elite Dangerous

Elite Dangerous is a space simulator that allows you to explore a realistic and detailed model of the Milky Way galaxy. With billions of star systems to visit, Elite Dangerous offers an incredible amount of content for players to discover.

You can trade goods, fight pirates, explore uncharted territories, and even participate in political and economic events. The game is known for its realistic physics and its immersive atmosphere. If you're a fan of space exploration and simulation games, Elite Dangerous is a must-play.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, there are many other games that could be considered for the title of longest video game. Here are a few honorable mentions:

  • Minecraft: This sandbox game has endless possibilities and can keep you entertained for years.
  • Stardew Valley: This farming simulator is surprisingly addictive and offers a ton of content.
  • Animal Crossing: New Horizons: This life simulation game is perfect for relaxing and escaping from the real world.
  • Crusader Kings III: A grand strategy game where you can play for hundreds of hours in a single campaign.

So, What's the Verdict?

So, which game is the absolute longest? It's tough to say definitively, as it depends on individual playstyles and how you define "long." However, based on sheer content volume and potential playtime, World of Warcraft, The Elder Scrolls Online, and EVE Online are definitely strong contenders. No Man's Sky and Elite Dangerous also offer immense worlds to explore, ensuring countless hours of gameplay.

Ultimately, the longest video game is the one that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it's the engaging storyline, the challenging gameplay, or the sense of community, the best games are the ones that you can lose yourself in for hours on end. So, grab your controller, settle in, and get ready for a long and rewarding gaming experience!

What do you guys think? Do you agree with our list? Let us know in the comments below what games you think are the longest and why!